View Full Version : Hard wiring under cabinet lighting
Sailorman
Apr 10, 2008, 06:56 PM
OK, I really need some help with under cabinet lighting. I posted earlier this week regarding the link below that suggests cutting the plug off the lights I bought and wiring directly to an outlet.
I received a couple of replies stating this is wrong, but didn't receive any further help.
If anyone could help here I would greatly appreciate it. How do I hard wire under cabinet lights that have a plug?
HOME IMPROVEMENT : Installation : Install an Under-Cabinet Light Strip : DIY Network (http://www.diynetwork.com/diy/lg_installation/article/0,,DIY_14034_2268504,00.html)
Credendovidis
Apr 10, 2008, 07:12 PM
OK, I really need some help with under cabinet lighting.
Hello Sailorman :
I ask myself what the problem is that you experience?
You can wire it with a connector to the outlet (the better option), or connect it as suggested into the outlet. Can't you miss that socket on the outlet for other use? There are two and three way combiners for the US system, is it not (sorry, I am in W. Europe).
Success!
As always : if you require more info, please let me know. If this solves your problem, please rate the answer provided! Feed back is always appreciated!
;)
Sailorman
Apr 10, 2008, 07:40 PM
I don't want to plug them into the socket as it is an eye sore seeing the cable.
I want to wire directly to the back of an outlet. Can I use the cable from the light by simply cutting the plug off?
hkstroud
Apr 10, 2008, 09:15 PM
What type of fixture are you using? Would you have enough room in the fixture itself to connect the house wiring? If not you will have to install outlet up as close to the cabinet as possible and plug the fixture in it. You cannot just cut the light cord and hard wire it. Once you connect the light cord to the house wiring, it becomes part of the house wiring and must meet all of the wiring rules.
Credendovidis
Apr 11, 2008, 03:12 AM
Can I use the cable from the light by simply cutting the plug off?
Yes you can, but that makes the light wiring a fixed part of wiring circuitry, and therefore it has to be installed as per the official wiring rules : so get an Electrical Reference Book for details[/URL]s.
Success!
As always : if you require more info, please let me know.
;)
pixelboy
Jul 2, 2009, 12:30 AM
Hey Sail, I did this the same as you. Did you find a better way or just followed the DIY?
I know it doesn't meet the electrical standards, but in the end is it dangerous or really a hazard? Has it worked for you?